Summary: Tesla is exploring land in Maharashtra, India, for an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant, with potential sites near Pune’s auto hubs. This move follows discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Elon Musk to boost Tesla’s presence in India’s fast-growing auto market. However, former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized India’s high import tariffs on cars, calling them unfair. Despite concerns, Tesla’s entry into India could enhance local manufacturing, job creation, and sustainable transport.
Elon Musk’s Tesla has reportedly begun scouting land in Maharashtra to establish an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing facility, with potential sites near Chakan and Chikhali, close to Pune, according to a report by The Economic Times.
Both locations are prominent automotive hubs, home to major industry players such as Mercedes-Benz, Tata Motors, and Volkswagen. Setting up a facility in this region would provide Tesla with strategic advantages, including access to an established supply chain and skilled workforce.
The move follows discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Elon Musk during Modi’s visit to the United States. The talks were aimed at exploring potential collaborations, giving a significant push to Tesla’s ambitions of gaining a foothold in one of the world’s fastest-growing automobile markets.
However, former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism over Musk’s India plans, citing the country’s steep 100% tariff on imported vehicles. “It’s practically impossible for him to sell a car in India,” Trump remarked during an interview with Fox News while seated beside Musk.
Trump further criticized India’s tariff policies, arguing that while manufacturing a Tesla plant in India might be an acceptable solution, it remains an unfair trade practice for the U.S. “If he built the factory in India, that’s okay, but that’s unfair to us. It’s very unfair,” he stated.
Despite these concerns, Tesla’s potential entry into India could mark a significant milestone for the country’s EV market, boosting local manufacturing, job creation, and sustainable transportation efforts.
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Last Updated on Thursday, February 20, 2025 2:00 pm by Entrepreneur Guild Team
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